Bold, zesty homemade Cajun spice gives a “flavor upgrade” to everything from chicken to steaks and grilled vegetables to garlic bread!
Smoked paprika, cayenne, and a few other spices make any dish rich with the flavor of the South!
It’s also great on potatoes, vegetables, and even popcorn!
What is Cajun Seasoning?
- Cajun seasoning is a simple blend of smoked paprika, cayenne, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt and pepper that adds a powerful punch of flavor to practically anything!
- This colorful blend creates a blackened effect on meats, seafood, potatoes, and rice while infusing them with a spicy, smokey kick of flavor!
- Creating your own spice blends lets you adjust them to your preference, is budget-friendly, and ensures there are no fillers or added preservatives.
- Once you’ve mastered this 7-seasoning blend, you’ll be inspired to try these other super easy homemade seasoning blends like steak, taco, fajita, jerk, and this uber-popular everything but the bagel seasoning.
Ingredients and Variations
Spices – Smoked paprika adds an earthy, blackened flavor to foods and for this recipe, it’s superior to regular paprika (but use what’s on hand). White pepper is sharper than black pepper, but if you don’t have it, just double up on the black pepper. Italian seasoning, garlic, onion powder, and salt round out the flavor profile for Cajun spice!
Variations – Feel free to adjust the heat level with the cayenne, perhaps make a mild batch and a spicy batch to use on various dishes. Just be sure to label them properly! Or add a dash of red pepper flakes to the spicy blend to tell the difference! A tablespoon of onion powder can be added if desired. Add some dried oregano or basil for a more herbal, grassy, Creole flavor.
How to Make Cajun Spice
See the recipe below for a doubled-up version to gift to friends and neighbors. You’re welcome!
- Whisk all of the ingredients in a bowl and transfer to a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Label with the date and store in the pantry for up to 6 months.
How to Use Cajun Seasoning
The possibilities for using Cajun spice are endless! Use it as a dry rub for smoked turkey, chicken, salmon, and sprinkle some over a sheet pan of shrimp and veggies. Season grilled vegetables or zest up a black bean corn salad. Even add it to dips, sauces or soups!
Tips and Tricks
Use the same amount in a 1:1 ratio as you would for store-bought Cajun seasoning in all your recipes.
Save washing a whisk and a bowl and simply shake the ingredients in a large shaker jar before transferring them to a permanent container.
In a pinch, Cajun seasoning can be added to a blender with sour cream and a splash of lime juice to make an instant dip or sandwich spread! It’s truly a spice for all reasons and seasons!
How to Store Cajun Spice
Cajun spice can last longer than 6 months, but the flavor won’t be as robust. Store Cajun seasoning in a container that fits the amount to avoid unnecessary airspace which will degrade the flavor faster. I like to use small desiccant packets that prevent moisture and clumping.
Other DIY Seasoning Recipes
Have you tried this Cajun Seasoning recipe? Leave a comment and rating below!
Cajun Seasoning
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons smoked paprika
- 2 Tablespoons salt
- 2 Tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 Tablespoon black pepper
- 1 Tablespoon white pepper
- 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ Tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 Tablespoon onion powder optional
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, add all ingredients and whisk until well combined.
- Store in a spice jar, mason jar with a lid, or another air-tight container.
Notes
- 6 Tablespoons smoked paprika
- 4 Tablespoons salt (¼ cup)
- 4 Tablespoons garlic powder (¼ cup)
- 2 Tablespoon black pepper
- 2 Tablespoon white pepper
- 2 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 Tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 2 Tablespoon onion powder, optional
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information does not include optional ingredients or garnish and is an estimate. It may change based on actual ingredients and cooking methods used.
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